IMPLANT SUPPORTED DENTURES IN MOBILE, AL
IMPLANT SUPPORTED DENTURES
Traditional dentures are a helpful replacement for missing teeth, but they don’t provide the same (or even a similar) level of support. As dental technology has developed, though, different types of dentures have become available. One amazing option that has emerged over the years is implant supported dentures. These dentures are held in place with implants, which helps to provide a level of strength and security that traditional dentures can’t.
Denture Overview
Dentures are a prosthetic device that replace missing teeth. Most conventional dentures are removable and rest on top of the gums. When enough gum and bone are present, an upper denture is held in place by suction. Because of the tongue, the lower denture typically does not get the aided retention of suction and is often held in place with denture adhesive paste or creams. After wearing dentures for some time, the gum and bone may begin to recede, as the teeth and bone work hand in hand to hold one another in place. Once the teeth are extracted, the bone or ridge gradually erodes, making the fit of the denture more difficult.
Dental Implant Overview
A dental implant is when you have a tooth missing and you wish to replace that tooth in a permanent fashion. If you have good-quality bone in an appropriate quantity, a titanium post will be inserted into your jaw in the area of the missing tooth. An abutment extension is put on the post in order for a natural-looking crown to be attached to the implant. Like teeth, dental implants help preserve the bone integrity and quantity. They are a very natural restorative option that aids in providing function and esthetics. So, let’s put those benefits with the dentures.
Implant Supported Denture Process
You understand the concept behind the dentures. You understand that the dentures just sit on your soft tissue and are held in place with nothing more than a bonding cream or suction. Now, add several implants, and they will serve as anchors for the dentures.
There are two different types of dental implant supported dentures. The first is like a snap on a shirt or jacket. The post attached to the implant has a ball on it. The socket will be inside the tray of the dentures. Aligned perfectly the denture snaps perfectly onto the implant abutment and is held in place. The second type is that a bar is attached between several implant posts. Then there is a slot on the inside of the tray, and the horizontal bar easily slides into this slot.
The process itself is a bit involved. First and foremost, an in-depth consultation determines whether you are a viable candidate for implants. Dr. Schrader with West Mobile Dental Care will evaluate your jawbone to determine the predictability of placing implants in your bone. Once we determine that implants are a good option, the first step is to make a temporary denture, which can be used to test and confirm tooth placement and bite patterns. Once the temporary denture is completed, a copy can be made that will serve as the guide to where the implants will be placed. This first set of dentures can also be kept as a backup.
Placement of the dental implant is the next step in the process. The area to receive the implant will be numbed first with a local anesthetic, and then a small incision made, allowing access to the bone for the insertion of the implant. The incision site will take several weeks to heal, and the titanium post will take roughly three months to integrate into the surrounding bone. After it is determined that the implant has adequately fused to the bone and is ready to support the denture, the abutment is inserted into the implant, and the denture is modified to receive the attachment.
Benefits of Implant Supported Dentures
There are many benefits to having implant supported dentures. The first is that there is typically no bonding cream necessary to attempt to hold them in place. The second follows that same thought, as they will not slip around or flop around in your mouth when you speak or eat. This goes a long way with chewing, eating, speaking, and smiling with confidence. With implants, you still retain the ability to remove the dentures and take proper care of them.
Implant Supported Denture Aftercare
It’s important to remove your implant supported dentures in the evening to clean them thoroughly. You can do this with a toothbrush, soap, and water. Do not use toothpaste for acrylic. You’ll also want to brush the gums lightly and continue to brush and floss your natural teeth as normal. In order to ensure your implant supported dentures stay strong and secure, you’ll want to visit West Mobile Dental Care for regular appointments so your dentist can check on your implants and prosthetic, as sometimes the denture can become loose and the attachments may need to be replaced. With the right care, your implants can last a lifetime.